Detail of sword of honour presented to Lord Nelson: 1798-1800

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Detail of sword of honour presented to Lord Nelson, showing one of a pair of crocodiles that flank the centre of the guard to the right. The crocodile is set against an enamelled translucent blue plaque and it is meant to represent the Nile. The Corporation of London presented this sword to Nelson together with the Freedom of the City of London in 1800. This was partly in response to Nelson's gift to the Lord Mayor of London of the sword surrendered by the French Admiral at the Battle of the Nile. But above all, it was in recognition of Nelson's 'public services and the eminent advantages he has rendered his country.'